Clara remained oblivious to the subtle movements behind her, but James caught every detail—his eyebrows knitting together in a dark frown.
His words lingered in her mind. If he hadn't gone abroad, perhaps things would have turned out differently. But life, after all, had no room for "what ifs."
"I'm sorry, Anthony. Let's put the past behind us," Clara said with quiet sincerity.
Anthony slowly pulled his arm back, his expression shifting to match her solemnity. "Agreed. Forward it is." He softened slightly. "Clara, know this—I'll respect your choices and won't intrude on your life. But can we still be friends?"
She nodded, a relieved smile touching her lips. "Of course."
"Good. Then you'll always be my junior," he murmured, reaching out to ruffle her hair affectionately.
Clara ducked
